Interspecific transfer of root-exuded specialized metabolites coincides with chromatin regulation and systemic chemical defense in rice
Laura Mathieu, Rémi Pélissier, Ines BenAmeur, Nicolas Poncelet, Adam Rochepeau, Claudia Rouveyrol, Pierre Pétriacq, Jean‐Benoit Morel, Louis‐Valentin Méteignier
This study shows that benzoxazinoids exuded by maize roots are taken up by rice roots, triggering chromatin changes and systemic chemical defense that reduce rice blast disease.
bioRxiv · Aug 12, 2026 · PreprintPlant Biology